Chaired by the Dean of Newcastle, The Very Reverend Lee Batson, the board is made up of 20 people who represent local communities in the Throckley, Newburn and Walbottle areas that were selected by the government’s Pride in Place programme earlier this year.
Following its inaugural meeting last week, the board is developing a neighbourhood plan that will guide how local people are involved in deciding how the funding is used over the next ten years. The investment will support projects that strengthen communities, improve local places and create opportunities for residents.
The Very Reverend Lee Batson has served as the Dean of Newcastle since October 2023 and leads the strategic mission of Newcastle Cathedral. He said: “It is a privilege to have been asked to Chair this Pride in Place board, and to be able to serve alongside a group of people who live, work and are deeply invested in Throckley, Newburn, Walbottle and Blucher.
“I look forward to working with them to help create a stronger future for all who call these places their home and to meeting other residents as the board continues its work in the coming months.”
Cllr Rob Austin, Newcastle City Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Youth Services, welcomed the board's first meeting and the opportunity for residents to help shape the area's future. He said: “Pride in Place is a significant investment in Throckley, Newburn and Walbottle but most importantly it gives local people a real say in how the funding is used.
"Improving neighbourhoods, enhancing local spaces and helping communities thrive are key priorities for us so it is fantastic to see the board up and running and ready to make sure local people’s voices shape how the funding benefits the area.”
Each Pride in Place neighbourhood board includes representation from the area’s Member of Parliament. Joe Morris, MP for Hexham, which includes Throckley, Newburn and Walbottle constituents, said: “Throckley, Newburn and Walbottle have long deserved more investment, and I'm proud to have secured this funding for our communities from this Labour government. That this funding is being overseen by such a talented board demonstrates the depth of talent and passion across our communities.
“Working alongside so many residents and representatives of the community is a huge privilege for me, and I look forward to working alongside Lee and every other board member. I'll continue to fight for every corner of the constituency, including Throckley, Walbottle and Newburn in Westminster.”
Parts of Elswick, Walker and Fawdon have also been selected as Pride in Place neighbourhoods and are currently establishing their own boards.
For more information about Pride in Place in Newcastle and how to get involved, visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/prideinplace.